149 replies
I was cruising in the O'hare area recently and saw the new Rivers Casino off the highway. Any plans for poker at that location? Website says no poker now. I'd never stay downtown again if that place had a decent poker room.
Seem like the list for each day is getting longer and longer. Thursday night list of 60 deep on 1/3 Friday lost 118 unreal
Any thoughts on the High Hand promo changes? Will we be seeing something additional with the drop from $500 to $250?
Very limited information on Bravo .. did they used to be $500 and now they are $250? Were they always Sun-Thur? From the outside looking in I think that for a room 'that' busy $250 is pretty low and they are padding the Promotional Fund. Typically you need an average of 7 tables dropping to support a $250 HH .. but that's just during the giveaway hours and you have all the other hours/days of the week where the Fund is just being padded. Under most Gaming Regulations you can ask for the Promo Fund Balance Sheet and they have to make a delivery method available to you if it's not readily available at the front desk. You may get some weird looks if you ask for the sheet, and some Floors may not know what it even is. Reading the language of a Promo Fund is not a fun task, but within the language it will tell you the general Fund guidelines. It's possible that the Fund was getting too low of a balance and they needed to make a change in order to give it a boost. Typically there is a ceiling for the Fund as well, which forces the casino to come up with ways to give the funds back to the Players. I really doubt you would get a lot of good intel from most Floors on this .. even some of the Supervisors probably don't know the exact workings of the Promo Fund. Anyway .. be assured that there are 'rules' in place with regard to the Promo Funds. And I say plural since the BBJ definitely has it's own Promo language and the HH have their own language within the workings of the 'general' Promo Fund guidelines. GL
caught a guy going south the other day in the 1/2 PLO game. guy wins a big pot that has a bunch of red chips. he immediately gets two tracks, colors the reds up to a $1k chip, puts the chip in his stack, and then 5 minutes later i noticed the $1k chip was no longer there. "what happened to that $1k chip?" i asked him. he smirked and reached into his pocket and put it back on his stack. "man, that's ****ed up. please don't do that again," i said. two other players noticed the same thing. dealer did too. so the guy stepped away for a few minutes and i called the floor over and told them what happened. amazingly, floor didn't do anything about it because he put the chip back on his stack after i asked him to. kinda messed up to not even give the guy a warning. "let me know if you see him go south," floor said. "i have zero tolerance for that."
Hey guys - I have a //checks itinerary// 16 hour layover flying in and out of Chicago. That's more than enough time to get some poker time in, I assume? Was thinking of getting a nearby hotel room to stash the luggage etc.
Yes. And you can check your bags at rivers - security will lock them up for you.
Yeah games run 24/7 so doesn't matter when you get there, and assuming you're flying in / out of ORD then it's super close.
by fxstone11 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58425574#post58425574)
caught a guy going south the other day in the 1/2 PLO game. guy wins a big pot that has a bunch of red chips. he immediately gets two tracks, colors the reds up to a $1k chip, puts the chip in his stack, and then 5 minutes later i noticed the $1k chip was no longer there."what happened to that $1k chip?" i asked him. he smirked and reached into his pocket and put it back on his... See full post
I saw security escort a woman out of the 5/5 NL game maybe 6months ago for going south. So I know its something the floor is willing to enforce and punish.
that's good to know. it's just odd to me that the floor would refuse to take any action in my tablemate's case.
The statement makes no sense .. YOU (and the Dealer) DID see him go south, so stay true to your word and take action. If he even took one hand with that chip off his stack you jump on it. Also .. How big was this guy's stack? Typically a 1k chip wouldn't be allowed on a 1/2 table since the BI is capped at $500. This might be an old school casino rule but I know it probably exists and is just not enforced very much. I wouldn't necessarily expect the cage to know the rule, but a Dealer should/might. Anyway, unless this guy had another $1K in other chips he shouldn't be coloring up to that extent. I've had 4k and 6k stacks in 1/2 PLO and didn't have any 1k in my stack. GL
by answer20 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58428985#post58428985)
The statement makes no sense .. YOU (and the Dealer) DID see him go south, so stay true to your word and take action. If he even took one hand with that chip off his stack you jump on it.Also .. How big was this guy's stack? Typically a 1k chip wouldn't be allowed on a 1/2 table since the BI is capped at $500. This might be an old school casino rule but I know it probably ex... See full post
yes, we saw him go south. me, the dealer, and two other players. i confronted him on it, and he put the chip back on his stack after i said something. he then went up to go to the bathroom, i called the floor over, told the floor what happened, and the floor didn't do anything about it. maybe i wasn't clear enough with the floor on what he did. $1k chips are common this game. i've seen guys with 8 or 9 of them; the game can get crazy. coloring up is totally acceptable at any stake in his room.
Lists are super out of control lol, still love it here but it is getting crazier. Not sure they have much desire to change it because adding tables would be expensive and they'd need to remove other gaming positions, place is mega busy at the weekends already. Plus it still is always full. I just wish they would give people less time to show up, or text people when they're 10/5/3 away and then give less time or something. So brutal to see 5 names flashing for 10m when you're next after them.
Poto opens in May .. GL
by answer20 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58482531#post58482531)
Poto opens in May .. GL
And Wind Creek Southland in August apparently, which I'm told will have 20+ tables (!)
Yes .. Right along 294 will be a good place to see what's going on and save some driving if possible. Nice to have options. Don't forget that the WSOP Circuit is ongoing at Horseshoe thru this weekend .. O/8 tournament today! GL
by TheGramuel m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58483042#post58483042)
And Wind Creek Southland in August apparently, which I'm told will have 20+ tables (!)
Whoa, I didn't even know this new poker room was opening! That will be fun to check out!
by NightGizmo m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58484364#post58484364)
Whoa, I didn't even know this new poker room was opening! That will be fun to check out!
https://windcreek.com/chicagosouthland/c... (https://windcreek.com/chicagosouthland/casino/poker) Excited for this! 26 tables! The area really needs someone to compete with Rivers. Elgin just doesn't do it.
by Majestical m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58484776#post58484776)
https://windcreek.com/chicagosouthland/c... (https://windcreek.com/chicagosouthland/casino/poker) Excited for this! 26 tables! The area really needs someone to compete with Rivers. Elgin just doesn't do it.
I wonder if some of this info is correct. It talks about covid19 and wind creek bethlehem which does have a room too.
by dimeat m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58485047#post58485047)
I wonder if some of this info is correct. It talks about covid19 and wind creek bethlehem which does have a room too.
I assume it was copy/pasted from another property, so I wouldn't be surprised if that number changes as the opening date gets closer. But if there are 20+ tables, that's still good!
by dimeat m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58485047#post58485047)
I wonder if some of this info is correct. It talks about covid19 and wind creek bethlehem which does have a room too.
Yeah, but a couple of people (who tend to know about these things) have said separately it'll have 20-26 tables, but who knows...
by TheGramuel m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58483042#post58483042)
And Wind Creek Southland in August apparently, which I'm told will have 20+ tables (!)
by Majestical m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58484776#post58484776)
https://windcreek.com/chicagosouthland/c... (https://windcreek.com/chicagosouthland/casino/poker) Excited for this! 26 tables! The area really needs someone to compete with Rivers. Elgin just doesn't do it.
Wow. Had not heard anything about this.
What is your opinion on the brawl that occurred in the poker room between the player - the dealer - and the player trying to help the dealer? Was the player trying to help the dealer penalized?
by PokerRabbit-IL m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58489240#post58489240)
What is your opinion on the brawl that occurred in the poker room between the player - the dealer - and the player trying to help the dealer? Was the player trying to help the dealer penalized?
Don't know anything about this, what happened? I'm likely going tonight so will ask
by PokerRabbit-IL m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58489240#post58489240)
What is your opinion on the brawl that occurred in the poker room between the player - the dealer - and the player trying to help the dealer? Was the player trying to help the dealer penalized?
Nobody here seems to know about this. Any more info?
by TheGramuel m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58490429#post58490429)
Nobody here seems to know about this. Any more info?
They’ve clearly been instructed not to talk about it. A regular was loosing. He blamed the dealer and threatened the dealer. Then, he attacked the dealer (who was much smaller). A player joined the fight to defend the dealer. The dealer was not penalized for the altercation. My question is “Was security at all helpful in this?” The answer is probably not.
by PokerRabbit-IL m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58490557#post58490557)
They’ve clearly been instructed not to talk about it. A regular was loosing. He blamed the dealer and threatened the dealer. Then, he attacked the dealer (who was much smaller). A player joined the fight to defend the dealer. The dealer was not penalized for the altercation. My question is “Was security at all helpful in this?” The answer is probably not.
If you were there, wouldn't you have seen whether security showed up? If you heard it from someone that was actually at the room, couldn't you ask them? Or are you just making up rumors to try and (weirdly) throw shade at the poker room?
by PokerRabbit-IL m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58490557#post58490557)
They’ve clearly been instructed not to talk about it.
All the players including regs too? I'm going back tonight I'll ask again. Which dealer was it? You can PM me if you don't want to say publicly.
That said I did see an altercation between two players last week (and a small LOL one last night). Security fairly useless there as none in the room, takes a minute for them to get there, and it's not like they're former military trained double hard bastards, just some dudes with wispy unshaven beards trying to get in the way by standing around.
Ahh gotta love Chicago poker. Put my name on Bravo 45 minutes before I got there, still waited 1hr 45min.
by cardsharkk04 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58491532#post58491532)
Ahh gotta love Chicago poker. Put my name on Bravo 45 minutes before I got there, still waited 1hr 45min.
If literally all you care about is the wait list then the Horseshoe (where you can sign up 2 hours before), GVC (an hour before but it's way shorter a wait), and RCG (where there's basically never a wait) are all options for you nearby. CCG usually a little further away but a 5th option.
by TheGramuel m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58491838#post58491838)
If literally all you care about is the wait list then the Horseshoe (where you can sign up 2 hours before), GVC (an hour before but it's way shorter a wait), and RCG (where there's basically never a wait) are all options for you nearby. CCG usually a little further away but a 5th option.
Thanks. I heard RCG doesn’t even get 2/5 NL running anymore, is that true? I know CCG basically never has 2/5. After coming back from Florida, it’s just a tough transition from always being able to open a new table once you get enough names on the list.
by cardsharkk04 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58491532#post58491532)
Ahh gotta love Chicago poker. Put my name on Bravo 45 minutes before I got there, still waited 1hr 45min.
And you could have driven 20 minutes down I90 to GVC and seated almost immediately. No idea why some people just refuse to go there. However, the lists are so out of control, GVC is seeing more tables opening the past few months The people who act like GVC is some sort of horrible room are just idiots. Rivers is marginally better in some ways, and GVC is marginally better in other ways I dont get the rivalry. Get over yourselves. There are people here who 100% drove an hour to play at the shoe 6 or 7 years ago who now refuse to drive 20 minutes more to GVC. The internet truly has revealed how many idiots we are surrounded by
by Majestical m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58484776#post58484776)
https://windcreek.com/chicagosouthland/c... (https://windcreek.com/chicagosouthland/casino/poker) Excited for this! 26 tables! The area really needs someone to compete with Rivers. Elgin just doesn't do it.
Gonna need specifics on how GVC is not a realistic option when Rivers' lists are 100 deep. Find it difficult to think Rivers is so amazing it's worth waiting 2 hours or more instead of going to GVC. Last time I was at Rivers its not like the waitresses are topless and free massages are given. So why is it worth a 2 hours wait?
by BSumner m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58503646#post58503646)
Gonna need specifics on how GVC is not a realistic option when Rivers' lists are 100 deep. Find it difficult to think Rivers is so amazing it's worth waiting 2 hours or more instead of going to GVC. Last time I was at Rivers its not like the waitresses are topless and free massages are given. So why is it worth a 2 hours wait?
Rivers is not a 2 hour wait on a week night as long as you use the bravo app properly. It allows you to sign up 90 minutes in advance.
First of all, txs for the tips on being able to store my luggage at Rivers. I had two 16+ hour layovers at O’Hare and was able to spend 15+ hours each time at the tables. I didn’t wait at all, always tables going even into the very very early hours (my last session started at like 9pm). Good games overall, not quite as fishy/splashy as Hard Rock in Tampa, not as passive as Parx in Philly. Still pretty typical villains that couldn’t bet fold on the river if their life depended on it. Nobody bets the river without the stone cold nuts, it’s crazy. Was up about $300 for the first session. Ran bad for a few hours against one particular villain the second session, that spent half his time rivering the stupidest hands against half the table, and was down over $600 at one point, but ended the session up about 100. Drinks take forever to come around - usually only 1-2 servers for the entire room, which is insane when there are so many tables going. Kitchen closes early, but the noodle place stays open late. Can’t eat at the table (not the worst thing in the world). Dealers overall seemed more competent than I remember at Parx or Hard Rock. And everyone seemed pretty friendly. Will definitely go back again.
I've got about 100 hours each at 1/3 at Rivers & GVC. Games are way better at Rivers but the list is insane on weekends & with 294 being completely ripped up the drive is worse than GVC for me. On weekends, I guess it's worth the 20min drive. I've seen guys waiting 3-4 hours at Rivers which is ridiculous. Weekends are also the only time you'll find a decent game at GVC. Even on Friday or Sat, you'll want to scope out tables because some of the daily regs & OMCs still hang around past dinner. Any weekday night you'll see the same OMCs & nit grinders. I've been on multiple nights where I thought it was seniors discount night. GVC is probably 80% miserable regs / OMCs at 1/3. The donkaments take away many of the casual players on weekends too. Then there's the min buyers who repeatedly throw $100 to the dealer & will lose a couple hands to sit there with $50 for 2-3 hours waiting on AA/KK. One Friday night I tried table changing 3x to get away from these players but they were on every table so I called it early & went home. Only place worse is Aurora. It's rare to see this kinda stuff at Rivers IME. The action is way better & the deeper buyin enables it. I hate the BTN straddle but I'll put up with that before sitting in horrible games in Elgin. That's why I'm hoping Wind Creek can help even out the lists a bit from Rivers. Also hoping Aurora's makeover in a couple years will be worth the wait. I don't care about some rivalry but bottom line is, in my experience, the games suck 80%+ of the time at GVC. At Rivers, I have yet to sit in a bad game, that is, once you make it through the insane list. Maybe I need to be playing 2/5 instead but there's never more than 2 tables even on weekends in Elgin & if you're not early (pre-dinner) I've seen guys at 1/3 wait 2-3 hours for a seat. For game quality, GVC just can't compete. I've been told by everyone I've asked that Hammond isn't worth the hour drive & bridge toll so I've never checked it out. Debated checking out CCG for awhile but never did. Since the list at Rivers is insane & drive up 294 sucks plus games being reg/omc fests in Elgin, I'm just waiting for August to see how Wind Creek goes. Sent from my DE2118 using Tapatalk
God yes, the button straddling was annoying AF; I kept wanting to yell at them, 'why the hell are you encouraging the blinds to just fold'. Why they do it is baffling, it's so bad for the game.
Rivers just has more games and if you time the 90 min bravo app, you're not really waiting long. Also GVC is higher rake as well so losing money there. And its really like a 30min drive door to door from Rivers to GVC
Members of Rivers Casino Poker Room are a cut above those of GVC/Aurora/Horseshoe.
Every time I think of going, the wait list is 30 deep. Not happening
by ninefingershuffle m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58508332#post58508332)
Every time I think of going, the wait list is 30 deep. Not happening
30 Deep is nothing. However, if you check in on Bravo 90 minutes in advance, that wait should be nearly zero.
by poker_sniper m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58503964#post58503964)
God yes, the button straddling was annoying AF; I kept wanting to yell at them, 'why the hell are you encouraging the blinds to just fold'. Why they do it is baffling, it's so bad for the game.
I'm no expert and hate this too but always assumed it was a smart move from a player smarter than me. Glad to hear others agree.
Does anyone have any info on what happened in the private room this Wednesday? Casino security and agents from gaming were escorting players off the premises - what for? Heard they got perma banned
by mrdrprof m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58513945#post58513945)
Does anyone have any info on what happened in the private room this Wednesday? Casino security and agents from gaming were escorting players off the premises - what for? Heard they got perma banned
No, I'll ask around. Weds I believe is the 25-25 PLO game, some serious gamblers involved there.
Other than the weekends what is the best day to play out here? Is there a particular weekday that's more busy than the others?
by mrdrprof m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58513945#post58513945)
Does anyone have any info on what happened in the private room this Wednesday? Casino security and agents from gaming were escorting players off the premises - what for? Heard they got perma banned
So a big deal supposedly happened at Rivers and not a single post about it. Well, what happened? Or is this just another poker urban legend.
by WhiteFang m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58521332#post58521332)
So a big deal supposedly happened at Rivers and not a single post about it. Well, what happened? Or is this just another poker urban legend.
Gaming board banned a bunch of players from the private plo game for selling chips to each other.
by fly44 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58521634#post58521634)
Gaming board banned a bunch of players from the private plo game for selling chips to each other.
That’s wild if there isn’t more to it. I’m sure it’s technically against some terms and conditions some where but poker players using casino chips as currency amongst themselves is super common.
by chiTown22 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58521870#post58521870)
That’s wild if there isn’t more to it. I’m sure it’s technically against some terms and conditions some where but poker players using casino chips as currency amongst themselves is super common.
Illinois very strict with this
What's the rationale for prohibiting it?
Money laundering
by chiTown22 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58521870#post58521870)
That’s wild if there isn’t more to it. I’m sure it’s technically against some terms and conditions some where but poker players using casino chips as currency amongst themselves is super common.
Believe you can give chips to other people all you like, you just can't exchange cash for them. They're SUPER strict on it, gaming board rule, casino does not want to lose their license so they ar in turn very strict on it.
by cardsharkk04 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58491532#post58491532)
Ahh gotta love Chicago poker. Put my name on Bravo 45 minutes before I got there, still waited 1hr 45min.
Yo how does that app work anyway? I got my players card registered and whenever I try to sign up for the waitlist it just seems like it isnt working. I click the checkbox and then the app is non responsive lmao. No live waitlist/list of names to be seen.
by cive7 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58525457#post58525457)
Yo how does that app work anyway? I got my players card registered and whenever I try to sign up for the waitlist it just seems like it isnt working. I click the checkbox and then the app is non responsive lmao. No live waitlist/list of names to be seen.
Click the checkbox, wait a second to confirm it registers, then click the "Sign Up' button at the top. It'll then flash up a box saying "Successfully Signed Up" and a second saying "Server received your enquiry. Success" You can't see the waitlist but you'll be on the list. Have to check in at the desk within 90 mins.
Anyone else getting something weird in this thread? Says cive responded but empty when I go in
by TheGramuel m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58527378#post58527378)
Anyone else getting something weird in this thread? Says cive responded but empty when I go in
I saw that, too. I assumed he deleted the post.
The Illinois Gaming Board is on site at Rivers Casino (usually 24/7). Rivers Casino will not produce the ability to contact them ever (which is against the rules). You may reach them 24/7 at 847-768-5205 (live person).
There is always supposed to be a 'Gaming Official' available in a casino for any patron to make contact with upon request. I've never come across where a patron was denied access to them, but have heard of a few 'delayed response times' when it comes to these requests. I'm not sure what those folks do as far as daily duties, but I'd assume it becomes pretty mundane in short order. Public casinos have 'State' Gaming officials whereas the impression of Tribal Gaming comes with a half-smile as a neutral intermediary for patron inquiries. There is a Federal Tribal Gaming Commission that can step in if action needs to be taken up a notch. GL
That gunshot report is weird. I happened to be at Poto in Milwaukee both times there was shots fired in the past 15 years. Ain't no way you're hearing gunshots and then staying around to count that there's 8 people involved. You running away, everyone else is running, and all security officers now start moving towards that location. It's chaos that builds further chaos inside the casino.
How do you feel about the food & beverage manager always walking around the poker room? What function does he have inside the poker room besides nothing? Who enjoys having to shake hands and talk with this person when you’re trying to concentrate on playing poker?
by PokerRabbit-IL m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58539960#post58539960)
How do you feel about the food & beverage manager always walking around the poker room? What function does he have inside the poker room besides nothing? Who enjoys having to shake hands and talk with this person when you’re trying to concentrate on playing poker?
Could not care less and have literally never even noticed tbh
by PokerRabbit-IL m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58539960#post58539960)
How do you feel about the food & beverage manager always walking around the poker room? What function does he have inside the poker room besides nothing? Who enjoys having to shake hands and talk with this person when you’re trying to concentrate on playing poker?
Posted by an obvious psychopath. That's the "net", internet.
TheGramuel is the only person stupid enough on this forum to use their username as the name they check in with at Rivers Casino. If you want to match his face with his username, pick your head up next time you hear Gramuel called on the speaker at Rivers Poker Room. If you don’t like his comments on this forum, put his poker chips where they belong - In your stack!
by PokerRabbit-IL m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58541873#post58541873)
TheGramuel is the only person stupid enough on this forum to use their username as the name they check in with at Rivers Casino. If you want to match his face with his username, pick your head up next time you hear Gramuel called on the speaker at Rivers Poker Room. If you don’t like his comments on this forum, put his poker chips where they belong - In your stack!
Incorrect - my username here is not the same as the name I have linked to my Rivers card / use to check in. Quite amusing if there is another Gramuel though.
Want to get away? Potawatomi opens next Thursday May 2nd at Noon with some Vegas celebrities coming in for a MUG. Plenty of starving fish up there that can't wait for destination poker to reopen. Why doesn't Rivers have MUGs? Well, it's always full, so no need .. Although Wolfgang Poker did hold/host a semi-private game in the side room some time back. MUGs (Meet Up Games) are when a Vegas Pro or YouTube Vlogger come in and rotate through a bunch of tables for a session or two (and get a cut of the rake). While it does create a bit of a buzz, most rooms are 'busy enough' as it is and don't need to give away any rake while bringing in extra staff. MGM-Detroit has hosted some of these events on Tue/Wed in the past .. never a weekend day. GL
I would appreciate a few tier credits for playing poker at Rivers Casino!
On a Monday morning, say around 5 or 6, are there 2/5 games running?
by ammodog m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58553181#post58553181)
On a Monday morning, say around 5 or 6, are there 2/5 games running?
Can't speak from direct experience but I'd guess there's at least 1 2/5 running around the clock. But I'm guessing that's one of the slowest, if not the slowest, time in the room.
Rivers is once again breaking games often. They were doing so good for a long time.
Why would they ever break a game that the players themselves don't ask to break?
by KatoKrazy m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58555488#post58555488)
Why would they ever break a game that the players themselves don't ask to break?
When they don't have enough dealers to cover tables etc. They then re-distribute the players at open seats around the room. It's not really a big deal at all. Usually it's like >1-2am when a game gets down to 5 or less. Sometimes they do have to hold off calling names on the list if they know they're about to lose some dealers. Rare-ish though in my experience other than crazily unexpectedly busy times.
by KatoKrazy m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58555488#post58555488)
Why would they ever break a game that the players themselves don't ask to break?
When they want to break a game, they stop allowing anyone to sit at the game when there are seats open. They stop seating the game altogether regardless of if the list is 60 people long. As you can imagine, the game gets down to 5 people and it brakes.
Back when I played regularly at the Horseshoe on Wednesdays (quite a few years ago), I knew that I had to get there before around 8pm if I wanted to get seated quickly. And if you got there too much later than 8pm you risked not getting seated at all, because they usually had to stop calling names off the list around 10 or 11pm to break tables because of dealer scheduling. Sadly, I rarely play anymore, so I can't speak to Rivers' track record. But if Gramuel is right and they rarely have to break games due to dealer staffing, that still sounds better than what I used to see. And it also doesn't sound like a big deal unless you're trying to get seated at midnight.
I've never heard of this 'stop seating' scenario .. it's seems very 'wrong'. The only thing I can think of in similar fashion is a restaurant that stops seating patrons prior to the official closing time. But a restaurant completely closes, which some/most Poker Rooms don't. Not just in poker, but lots of these 'communication' spots pop up in our lives. Just explain the situation and be up front with your patrons. "Sir, I can offer you a seat over here, but the table will break at X:xx o'clock due to our staffing policy currently in place." To me, this is very simple .. then it's back on the Player, not the House, for not getting to play. Even the food service issue is not a true comparison since in Poker there's no food preparation time bogging down other staff. And even if a Room does close for the night they should schedule the Cashier to remain on the clock 15-30 minutes afterwards to cash out the Players. In Michigan there is a hard stop for Poker in Charity Rooms .. Even the paperwork must be completed by the 'end' time listed on the license, so closing down tables is essentially tiered to make sure regulations are met. While that is all fine and dandy .. I've never known the State Gaming Inspector to show up at 1:30am to verify that this is actually happening. "I'm sorry sir .. even though you can see the ice cream, we're not going to offer any of it to you." Blows me away .. GL
They definitely stop seating when there's a list and don't have dealers. It tends to happen later at night but still crowded E.g its 11pm but they need to send dealers home at 0000. There's full 22 tables but they only have enough for 20 tables. They will stop calling people for 1-3/2-5 until they can break two tables so there'll be like up to 8 seats open across various 1-3 games but no names get called. 9 seats open --> break a table. So being 1st on the list is really an invisible 10th on the list. This past friday, I saw them break two games of 1-3 /2-5 before midnight while the lists were massive.
Rivers Poker Room is hiring supervisors desperately - So much that they are having Walk In Interviews every Wednesday from Noon - 2 pm. This is a good example of just how toxic the work environment is at Rivers Poker Room from the Floor Staff down.
by PokerRabbit-IL m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58566568#post58566568)
Rivers Poker Room is hiring supervisors desperately - So much that they are having Walk In Interviews every Wednesday from Noon - 2 pm. This is a good example of just how toxic the work environment is at Rivers Poker Room from the Floor Staff down.
So.... hiring = desperate = toxic? I think the only desperation here is your attempts to bad-mouth Rivers. Are you going to send me another PM swearing at me? Or will you create yet another account to do that, and think that we don't know it's all the same person posting stupid links and random negative comments but only in this thread?
No one knew that Rivers would loose such an extraordinary amount of business to Potowatomie.
It's natural for Players to go and scope out the 'new toy' .. at least initially. There was a similar situation in Michigan when Gun Lake Opened and Firekeepers lost quite a bit of business. Over the course of time some Players went back to their old ways and drive right past GL to go to FK at least some of the time. So things do level out, it's just a matter of how long it takes. Another minor factor is the 'Fish' factor, but this may not apply as much to Poto since they had poker previously. When a room opens there are usually a lot of Players who may not play the game as well that are excited to come in and give it a try. Players know this and try to take advantage of a less-skilled Player Pool before they get too frustrated and go back to their previous 'life' or run their bankroll down. The other obvious factor is that Players actually were making the drive from WI down to Rivers. Rivers should've know how much of a factor this would be if they pay any attention to their Player Comp reports .. it's pretty easy to do some spreadsheet type sorting by zip code and figure out where your Players are coming from each day of the week. GL
by PokerRabbit-IL m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58575249#post58575249)
No one knew that Rivers would loose such an extraordinary amount of business to Potowatomie.
Literally everyone thought this would happen when that opened. Even I (who lives on the north side of Chicago) am going to check out Pota soon
This Food & Beverage “Director” is one Worthless Piece Of Gosh Darn ****! Talk about a pussy in a $89 Suit!
Tbf I do get a little jealous of the players in the big game getting their steaks table side lol
It surprises me that Johnnie (floor staff) has become a power tripper. “Hi Mom. I’ve acquired a new skill in the poker room I work at. I’m on a power trip now. I’ve watched Jason and Sean for a long time and they’re very good at it and I think it’s the right thing for me!” “That’s great Johnnie. Is that skill transferable to other jobs?” “It all depends Mom. In some businesses, you get your head knocked off for causing people problems for no reason. But, not at Rivers Casino. We have many Fat and Ugly security guards around so I feel safe Mom”.
by BSumner m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58503646#post58503646)
Gonna need specifics on how GVC is not a realistic option when Rivers' lists are 100 deep. Find it difficult to think Rivers is so amazing it's worth waiting 2 hours or more instead of going to GVC. Last time I was at Rivers its not like the waitresses are topless and free massages are given. So why is it worth a 2 hours wait?
The no flop no drop rule. GVC drops. rivers doesn’t. This cost the good pros about $10 a hour
You can’t eat at the table at Rivers, but you can buy potato chip from the cocktail service. Go figure
by Chidog m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58582213#post58582213)
The no flop no drop rule. GVC drops. rivers doesn’t. This cost the good pros about $10 a hour
This, plus it's $1 more rake anyway, plus there is never any money on any table. The play is however significantly worse than Rivers, but not sure by enough to make up the difference.
by Majestical m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58484776#post58484776)
https://windcreek.com/chicagosouthland/c... (https://windcreek.com/chicagosouthland/casino/poker) Excited for this! 26 tables! The area really needs someone to compete with Rivers. Elgin just doesn't do it.
Is this casino still going to have a poker room? This link no longer works, and the main page only mentions "1350 slot machines, 56 table games" -- no mention of poker.
Played today, something hilarious happened at the table next to me (might get the exact cards wrong or the amount, but the concept is bang on). Guy announces "next hand I'm all in blind for $545, you can all do what you like but I'm going all in blind for $545". Sure enough he shoves for $545, guy on his DL thinks and calls (he covers), folds all around. Flop comes middling cards with 2 diamonds, turn diamond, caller snap shows AQdd and is already counting the money. River comes off, guy turns over one card at a time - bosh - 9 high straight flush LOL. Wins the $1100 pot AND there's like 2m left in the high hand hour, so he wins that too, has to sign up for a loyalty card to get the $500 bonus. Good to run good.
by NightGizmo m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58582284#post58582284)
Is this casino still going to have a poker room? This link no longer works, and the main page only mentions "1350 slot machines, 56 table games" -- no mention of poker.
Wind Creek never had a plan to open a poker room.
by ChipSpewer m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58583404#post58583404)
Wind Creek never had a plan to open a poker room.
Bummer. Originally, that link said there would be 26 poker tables. But I think it was a copy/paste mistake from another location that has poker, because it also had a section on Covid protocols.
What’s the main catalyst for the 5/5 NL game? It run some days, sometimes even two tables and then other days doesn’t run at all.
by yoolykeme m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58348251#post58348251)
ooohhh....tell me your opinion on the other fishessss at 5-5
i saw that nonsense between you and ho the other day, where in a big pot you tabled your hand and a card fell on the floor, and he tried to claim you threw it off the table and that your hand was dead. obv no one agreed with him, including the floor.
by ChipSpewer m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58583404#post58583404)
Wind Creek never had a plan to open a poker room.
True. Mostly, there are no new poker rooms, anywhere, convenient for Negro travel. There is a new poker room, in what was a corn field, Terre Haute, Indiana.
by fxstone11 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58588994#post58588994)
i saw that nonsense between you and ho the other day, where in a big pot you tabled your hand and a card fell on the floor, and he tried to claim you threw it off the table and that your hand was dead. obv no one agreed with him, including the floor.
Oh that was someone on here? I was at the next table to that, did you see the player that lost the hand went and got his casino host and brought them up to the poker room to see if they could sort it out LOL. Argument broke out at my table as if the casino really cared about the player who lost the hand or not, someone claimed "even if he lost $100k a month they wouldn't give a **** about him", of course that is hilariously LOL.
Does anyone else find that the player pool at rivers is ass right now? I only play 1/3 so I assume it’s limited to just those games but man the last 3 times I’ve been Im sitting next to people who are either verbally antagonistic and looking for some kind of argument or just mean mugging everyone at the table like theyre playing for their life savings of 300 dollars. I can only recall 2 times where everyone was chatting **** and laughing the whole the time but recently it’s been just boring and uncomfortable.
I think this is a sort of 'Spring' thing each year. Lots of Recs don't play as much when the weather gets better and then there's that Tax Return money that is already gone too. You also have Players who are going to head to LV in June/July for the WSOP playing a bit less, saving their bankroll for that trip. When all of this happens at the same time you are going to be left with a higher percentage of Players who can't afford LV trips, so their radius is much smaller, especially at whatever is the lowest stake in the room. GL
Recs play less in warm weather. Also its wsop time so less people there and recs saving their time and money for that.
by dimeat m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58561310#post58561310)
They definitely stop seating when there's a list and don't have dealers. It tends to happen later at night but still crowdedE.g its 11pm but they need to send dealers home at 0000. There's full 22 tables but they only have enough for 20 tables. They will stop calling people for 1-3/2-5 until they can break two tables so there'll be like up to 8 seats open across various 1-3... See full post
This happened to me tonight. At 10:20 I was next on the list(after waiting an hour) Then the list stopped moving. Apparently they were breaking two or theee tables. At 11:00 I was now 4th on the list somehow. I stood there thinking I was next up for an almost an hour. To make matters worse, they seemed to be quietly seating people they were friendly with. I probably wont go back to rivers unless I have no other options
There is a new restaurant at Rivers - It’s called RC Supply Co. It is in the place of the old buffet. 4-10 pm Sun-Thurs 4-11 pm Fri-Sat
for those denying Wind Creek will have a poker room....
personally looking forward to an alternative from Rivers
by Majestical m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58621544#post58621544)
for those denying Wind Creek will have a poker room.... personally looking forward to an alternative from Rivers... See full post
Nice!!! Thanks for the update!
Hey Chicago, How is the market here for the weekends? I see you guys have a deeper 1.3 game and a lot of tables. Does anyone care to share their experiences here?
Every Day At Rivers Is A Chance To Prove That You’re Solid!
There is a 20-40 LHE running now and most of the day. Smallest fixed limit game I have seen here
by iron81 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58639437#post58639437)
There is a 20-40 LHE running now and most of the day. Smallest fixed limit game I have seen here
We are trying to get this game going on Friday's at 12:30 pm. It ran until midnight the first Friday and 9:30 pm last Friday. Let me know if anyone is interested in starting the game. Otherwise, you can join later.
8-ish tables going on a Wed during the day .. nice work Players! I saw a 5-5 PLO game going ..was that a special group of Players or does PLO have a chance on most any day? GL
by benping16 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58653031#post58653031)
We are trying to get this game going on Friday's at 12:30 pm. It ran until midnight the first Friday and 9:30 pm last Friday. Let me know if anyone is interested in starting the game. Otherwise, you can join later.
2 spots left for tomorrow. DM if you would like to be on the list to start the game.
by Majestical m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58503923#post58503923)
I've been told by everyone I've asked that Hammond isn't worth the hour drive & bridge toll so I've never checked it out. Debated checking out CCG for awhile but never did. Since the list at Rivers is insane & drive up 294 sucks plus games being reg/omc fests in Elgin, I'm just waiting for August to see how Wind Creek goes.
Have you gone yet? I think they run the best games in the area. There's always a few 1/2 (400 max) games going and a 2/3 (1k/table captain max), and they only take a five dollar rake. The games are really soft, and the staff is cool. Much better vibes than RCG, that's for sure. Sunday nights can be a bit slow depending the location. Good structures and turnouts for their tournaments as well.
5-5 PLO had two tables by 12pm on Saturday. Great Action early, died down by mid-afternoon.
Really great group of guys in that player pool. Always fun. Carmine
Do comps gotten in the poker room ever expire?
Yes, comps expire if you go too long without using them.
What is Jason’s last name (floor)? Isn’t he wonderful!
Most casino comps don't expire as long as you visit the casino at least every 6 months, some once a year. Be sure to check with either the Poker Desk or the Rewards Center to be sure. GL
When I check my comp points balance on the machine outside the poker room, how do the points translate into dollars? And, what do you recommend as the best use of comp dollars?
by chiTown22 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58715864#post58715864)
When I check my comp points balance on the machine outside the poker room, how do the points translate into dollars? And, what do you recommend as the best use of comp dollars?
it's 1/100th, so say 10,000 reward points is $100. I just use mine for food (not sure how else you even use them). Most of the time I drive in, park, go straight to the table and then leave and never spend any, so I accumulate a bunch before I spend them. Go to Hugo's for free like 2-3x a year, or just spend them at Flipt, etc. Avoid the taco spot it's bad.
by TheGramuel m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58718998#post58718998)
it's 1/100th, so say 10,000 reward points is $100. I just use mine for food (not sure how else you even use them). Most of the time I drive in, park, go straight to the table and then leave and never spend any, so I accumulate a bunch before I spend them. Go to Hugo's for free like 2-3x a year, or just spend them at Flipt, etc. Avoid the taco spot it's bad.
Thank you!
by TheGramuel m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58718998#post58718998)
it's 1/100th, so say 10,000 reward points is $100. I just use mine for food (not sure how else you even use them). Most of the time I drive in, park, go straight to the table and then leave and never spend any, so I accumulate a bunch before I spend them. Go to Hugo's for free like 2-3x a year, or just spend them at Flipt, etc. Avoid the taco spot it's bad.
Or just think each point as a penny.
I was told at the costumer service desk that you have to visit the casino every 6 months or your points expire. I had like 70 or 80 bucks worth, but didn't get over to this casino for over a year and my points started back at zero. Missed out on a streak at Hugo's.
by EdNealy m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58723145#post58723145)
I was told at the costumer service desk that you have to visit the casino every 6 months or your points expire. I had like 70 or 80 bucks worth, but didn't get over to this casino for over a year and my points started back at zero. Missed out on a streak at Hugo's.
Many are 6 months. Some are a year. I know of one that is only 3 months. With many, if they have a credit card, online gaming, or other way to register activity w/o going to the casino, you can use those to keep the points active. Also if you are a big enough player, and something happens where you "barely" miss the 6 months window, a VIP host can (but not always will) reinstate them
Wind Creek Chicago has officially been listed on Bravo. Their description says opening in November. Unfortunately, they're only going to have 10 tables total. I was hoping they would have close to Rivers to give them some competition & possibly spread PLO.
TY for 99% positive report. QUOTE=Majestical;58756333]Wind Creek Chicago has officially been listed on Bravo. Their description says opening in November. Unfortunately, they're only going to have 10 tables total. I was hoping they would have close to Rivers to give them some competition & possibly spread PLO.[/QUOTE]
by brianr m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58249519#post58249519)
Should be noted that 5-5 plo is also match the stack and plays big
How big is big? Does it typically have a $10 straddle? Higher? Even during the day? Just curious how much money I’d need to bring to play a session.
by chiTown22 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58776274#post58776274)
How big is big? Does it typically have a $10 straddle? Higher? Even during the day? Just curious how much money I’d need to bring to play a session.
Straddles range from $10-20 depending on the player. When it gets real deep most people straddle for $20.
by PocketAceTrader782 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58785541#post58785541)
Straddles range from $10-20 depending on the player. When it gets real deep most people straddle for $20.
Thank you! How much cash would you recommend I bring with me to play a session?
by chiTown22 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58786420#post58786420)
Thank you! How much cash would you recommend I bring with me to play a session?
10k, 5 buyins of 2k
Wind Creek Southland poker room is open & listed on Bravo.
Bad beat was hit tonight. $160k to winner. Phil Hellmuth just happened to be here doing a meet n greet https://x.com/phil_hellmuth/status/18923... (https://x.com/phil_hellmuth/status/1892389511943872828?s=46)
I had seen that. Crazy timing!
Anyone play here during daytime hours? How's the action?
I’ve only been to Rivers in Albany NY. It’s a dump, service is awful and games are okay. Hearing about tables breaking late and not getting a seat makes me not want to travel there. Is Wind Creek better in terms of chill, relaxing, fun ambiance? Action, table chatter etc. Or is it pro/euro infested with backpacks and tanking stations?
Does anyone have any info on the write up by IGC over the last weekend concerning weak enforcement of the no phone during a hand rule?
by WhiteFang m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58952244#post58952244)
Does anyone have any info on the write up by IGC over the last weekend concerning weak enforcement of the no phone during a hand rule?
Ha, I'm here right now and was coming to post about this. Theyre being mega anal about the phone rule today so I asked what's up.... Apparently two 5-10 players were credibly accused of cheating with cameras etc. Who knows though. Rumours are flying lol
I'm a reg and was playing earlier and got some info, not sure of the accuracy but reliable source. Kind of a crazy spot Allegedly, there were a pair of out of towners that were cheating at the private table, unsure of the stakes but at least 5-10. One guy sitting in the 1 or 9 seat had his cell phone on or near the felt and the angle was low enough that it was able to see under the dealer's pitch, effectively making these guys super users. From what I've read about, there are specialty phones designed just for this purpose. Software reads the card faces and can then feed the info to the original guy or (more likely) to the 2nd guy, who simply gets a message on his phone and can then proceed to scoop pots. So since it was a high stakes table, with no promos, most of the dealers were lax on the cell phone rule. It's generally understood high rollers get away with more too... but now the IGC and upper management are all over their ass about cell phones. Apparently they went back and watched all the video footage and are bringing the hammer down on the floor and dealers ...it's a whole mess. So now dealers are forced to be extra anal about cell phones. Tonight, they wouldn't deal you cards until your phone was out of your hand or out of sight. It doesn't bode well for game speed for the time being... Also, allegedly the cheaters had previously been banned from other casinos in FL. I'm hoping they face some kind of justice but have zero details regarding them or how much they got/ how many sessions etc. Stay safe out there folks
Damn, I guess the player experience can get even worse at Rivers somehow
by cardsharkk04 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58953208#post58953208)
Damn, I guess the player experience can get even worse at Rivers somehow
The player experience is just fine. With a few exceptions I find floor folks and dealers excellent. However, there have been times when phone rule enforcement was a bit lax. Presumably that has been corrected. And, of course, at any stake level it is common sense to always be aware.
by cardsharkk04 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58953208#post58953208)
Damn, I guess the player experience can get even worse at Rivers somehow
Player experience really solid at Rivers IME.
If you like tight games, long lists, lines at the cage, pita to rebuy, it’s great.
The player experience at River's is just fine. People always want to whine and find something to complain about. A whole lot of Main Character Syndrome with those types.
by cardsharkk04 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58955221#post58955221)
If you like tight games, long lists, lines at the cage, pita to rebuy, it’s great.
"tight" games? Rivers is the loosest, most wild room in the entire midwest. Please, tell me a room that has more action.
Are double board plo bomb pots ever dealt here or anywhere else in Chicago besides RCG? Thanks guys.
No, they aren't allowed per the Illinois gaming board
I heard that Rivers is going to have tournaments soon. Is this true?
They are saying this since opening and still no tournaments ! I believe it when I will play them!
They definitely don't have the tables/dealers for tournaments. So unless it's gonna be a small one or oddball times or there's a huge downturn in cash games, I would not expect any for a while either.
Pretty reliable info from a dealer at River's Des Plaines that tournaments will be on Mondays starting in July. No info on buy in or structure
I heard this from a dealer too
Commenting to check back later for the tournament info in July if it actually happens
by Philly 71 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58984388#post58984388)
Pretty reliable info from a dealer at River's Des Plaines that tournaments will be on Mondays starting in July. No info on buy in or structure
This is basically the only time I can see it happening, or maybe daytimes Tues-Weds too. I've actually been playing at Wind Creek recently despite it being a 15-20m longer drive for me, the games I find are so much better there, and people actually buy in for money, and the clientele are generally fine, both unlike Elgin.